Cookies on the NHS website
We've put some small files called cookies on your device to make our site work.
We'd also like to use analytics cookies. These send information about how our site is used to services called Adobe Analytics, Hotjar and Google Analytics. We use this information to improve our site.
Let us know if this is OK. We'll use a cookie to save your choice. You can read more about our cookies before you choose.
I'm OK with analytics cookies Do not use analytics cookies
Search the NHS website
Search
Health A-Z
Live Well
Mental health
Care and support
Pregnancy
Browse
More
Home Health A to Z
Total protein test
A total protein test measures the amount of protein in your blood.
Proteins are important for the health and growth of the body's cells and tissues.
The test can help diagnose a number of health conditions, including:
kidney disease
liver disease
malnutrition – a serious condition that occurs when a person's diet doesn't contain enough nutrients to meet their body's needs
If your total protein level is low, you may have a liver or kidney problem, or it may be that protein isn't being digested or absorbed properly.
A high total protein level could indicate dehydration or a certain type of cancer, such as multiple myeloma, that causes protein to accumulate abnormally.
If the result of a total protein test is abnormal, further tests will be needed to identify which proteins are too high or too low. This will enable an accurate diagnosis to be made.
Read more about the total protein test at Lab Tests Online UK.
Page last reviewed: 21 September 2018
Next review due: 21 September 2021
Support links
Home
Health A to Z
Live Well
Mental health
Care and support
Pregnancy
NHS services
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
NHS App
Find my NHS number
Your health records
About the NHS
Healthcare abroad
Contact us
Other NHS websites
Profile editor login
About us
Accessibility statement
Our policies
Cookies
© Crown copyright